Stella Hemetsberger, the Austrian fighter known as "Always Hungry," has made a significant mark in the world of combat sports by becoming a two-sport ONE World Champion. Unlike many athletes who may change their demeanor or identity after achieving such a monumental milestone, Hemetsberger has remained grounded and true to herself.
As she prepares to defend her ONE Women’s Strawweight Muay Thai World Title for the first time, Hemetsberger is set to face Russian competitor Natalia "Karelian Lynx" Diachkova. This highly anticipated matchup will headline ONE Fight Night 46, which is scheduled for August 14, 2023, and will be broadcast live from the iconic Lumpinee Stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, during U.S. primetime.
Hemetsberger's journey to the top began when she captured the vacant Muay Thai crown by defeating Jackie Buntan at ONE Fight Night 35. Just five months later, she showcased her versatility by reclaiming the title in a thrilling rematch against Buntan, this time in the kickboxing division. With these victories, she became one of only three female athletes in ONE Championship history to hold titles in two disciplines, joining the ranks of Stamp Fairtex and Janet "JT" Todd.
Reflecting on her achievements, Hemetsberger expressed her joy and satisfaction, stating, "Since I became a double champion, it’s just been amazing. I’m really happy I could get the win in the second fight as well and just prove myself. I’m super happy with how it went." Despite the accolades and recognition, she emphasizes that her core identity as a martial artist remains unchanged. Hemetsberger continues to train diligently at Phuket Fight Club, where she first began her professional journey in 2022.
At just 27 years old, Hemetsberger maintains a focused mindset, believing that her dual championships have only intensified her drive to improve. She stated, "I think that experience of becoming a double champion gives me the motivation to always get better and become a better fighter. Each fight, I’m aiming to get better and better until I’m the best version of myself." This commitment to growth is evident in her training regimen, as she seeks to elevate her skills with each passing day.
Despite her newfound fame and the attention that comes with being a two-sport champion, Hemetsberger remains humble. She admits that discussing her status as a star feels strange, as she perceives herself as the same individual who started her journey years ago. "Honestly, I feel very weird talking about myself, like, as a star, because I feel like I’m still the same person. Like, for me, it hasn’t changed that much," she shared.
Looking back on her path, Hemetsberger recalls her beginnings in Muay Thai at the age of 13, a time when she stumbled into the sport almost by chance. If she could speak to her younger self, she would encourage perseverance and motivation, reminding her to stay focused on her goals. "If there is a message I would like to tell my 13-year-old self... I would just tell her to keep going, stay motivated, and just follow your goals," she concluded.
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